Wednesday, October 17, 2007

News from trip to Baltimore.

Hey, Just wanted to let everyone know that all went pretty well on our latest trip back to Baltimore. Cameron has had a strange few days with lots of nystagmus (eye movements) and dizzy spells. We do not believe that these are seizures although they do put her in a state where she does not function very well. Typically, they come on and she can sleep them off with a short nap but on Tuesday the day of our appointments, she was like this from 8:15 - 12:15. She did some work on the split treadmill and the folks in the lab were very patient with us as Cameron took two short naps during this time. It was a little frustrating b/c she was not at her best and I was so hoping for them to see how well she is truly doing. Then we were off to see Dr. Jallo the neurosurgeon and she had the same symptoms which was perfect b/c we wanted them to see in person what we were talking about. When it was time to see Dr. Hartman the neurologist she was back to being perky, happy and no nystgmus, of course. Luckily, we had recorded it earlier in the day so that they could see what we had been talking about. We also had an opportunity to see Cameron's MRI which looked great. They really removed almost everything from the right side except for a small area in the frontal lobe and an area of the occipital lobe.

The main discussion was why are these eye movements and dizzy spells occurring. They believe it can be one of three things. First, it could be something just post op caused by the trauma of surgery and it could go away. It could be medication related so we will be doing some blood work and adjustments if necessary. Or it could be that there is some pressure building up in her brain. They want to rule this last option out. SO we are heading back to Hopkins on Wednesday for a Thursday appointment where they will do a Lumbar puncture or a Spinal tap. This will give them a number or pressure level that may answer some questions. We will keep you posted upon our return.

Overall Cameron is doing so well and school is also progressing but not without challenges. It is hard for her educators and therapist at school as this is new to them and Cameron is changing all the time. The group is very dedicated to helping her to be successful and to get the most out of each day which is so important. Thanks to Cameron's Florence team. Take care. Shelly

4 comments:

Jayne said...

Thanks for the update. Keeping you in my prayers, dear. I'm sorry I didn't get to see you at the Japanese restaurant.

andrea said...

Sorry to hear that things didn't go perfectly like you would've wanted. I, too, was excited to hear how thrilled the doc's were with her progress. But, at the same time, I guess it was good for them to see the symptoms that she's having. Hope this next appt gets some answers for you.

Stacy Nicholson said...

Cameron is my little hero!!!! She continues to amaze all of us! She is sooooo sweet. Mom and I giggle just thinking about some of the super sweet things she said when you all where here. “Caroline, that’s a beautiful song…”
I love you guys!

Anonymous said...

Cameron you are truly my hero!! I hope some day you will become a beautiful ballerina!! You are always in my thoughts!!!!